Side Dish: The Miracle That Is Beer Bread…Who Knew?!

Since I was a kid, I have spent a portion of my Saturday watching cooking shows. Back then it was Julia Child and Jacques Pépin on our local PBS station. Of course, I have many more options now than I did a little more than thirty years ago—Food Network, Cooking Channel, TLC, etc.—so many cooking shows, so little time.

I had all but forgotten about the cooking magic that happens on my once-beloved PBS until a few weeks ago when I watched an episode of Sara’s Weeknight Meals. The show was all about sandwiches. The host, Sara Moulton, said she would be making something called beer bread. I was intrigued and transfixed by the idea. The recipe was so simple. Of course, Sara's bread looked great—she had the magic of television on her side. I was skeptical, but I knew I had to try it—so, I did.

Photograph by Ali at GimmeSomeOven.com

I reduced the recipe by half (professional bakers advise against tinkering with the measurements in this way). If it didn’t turn out well, it would be better to have a small loaf to throw out rather than a large one.

Fortunately, the bread was a huge hit. It goes fantastically with a bowl of chili. Absolutely delicious! Unfortunately, I finished the loaf before realizing I should take a picture. So, the picture is not mine—but this loaf looks a lot like mine did.

Next time, I’m going to try adding scallions or onions. It may also work with cinnamon and raisins. The possibilities are almost endless!

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